The Deepest Cut of Betrayal

Years ago, when Hazel had thrown a screaming fit demanding oatmeal, Clara had hurried to cook it and suffered a severe burn in the rush. She had ignored the searing pain just to soothe her crying child, waiting until Hazel finished eating every last spoonful before tending to her own scalded skin.

That was the origin of the angry, permanent mark stretching across Clara's back. Even the most expen